My Top 3 Books for Creatives

I’m a reader. There is something so relaxing to me about curling up with a good book, and letting the rest of the world fall away. Taking a bath? A train ride? Hanging out on the beach? A book is the one thing I will always bring.

Today I’m sharing some of my must-reads for creatives – yes, that’s you! We are all creative beings, and these books will help to further unlock that realm within you.

1.     Make Good Art by Neil Gaiman

This book was created from the commencement speech author Neil Gaiman (known for American Gods, Good Omens, and more) delivered in 2012 at Philadelphia’s University of the Arts. I was gifted a copy from my sister when I received my MFA, and it has been a guiding light for me ever since. Touching on topics like imposter syndrome and what to do when you’re just feeling hopeless, I felt seen, but most of all, inspired to keep going and make good art. Order your copy here.

2.     Find Your Artistic Voice by Lisa Congdon

Full of vibrant illustrations and interviews with fellow creatives, this book shines a light on the sometimes treacherous, but ultimately beautiful journey of creating art. As someone who has focused on creating art for all of their adult life, I still found this book to be insightful and helpful in discovering and defining your own distinct artistic voice. Snag one for yourself and a friend.

3.     Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

By far, my favorite thing this wonderful woman has ever written. It’s honest, and really addresses the fears that we all experience in our quest to live a creative life. And yes, it’s about a creative life! Not just being an artist, or writer, or other “creative professional”. I laughed, I cried, I spent hours in bed staying up way too late to blast through each page with delight. Grab a copy, stat.

I hope you enjoy these reads as much as I did. Do you have favorites you would like to share? Drop a line in the comments! And for more resources for creatives, sign up for our newsletter here!

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